LA FINCA SAN ANTONIO
A pleasant estate steeped in history, home to a tall, ancient 24-metre pyramid offering a beautiful view of the overgrown countryside.
An imposing 500-year-old ceiba or cheese tree greets you on arrival at Finca San Antonio. For the Mayans, this sacred tree symbolized the axis of the world. The estate is very pleasant to visit, and belongs to the Perdomo family, one of whose ancestors, General Abraham Perdomo, fought with Guatemalan General Barrios at the Battle of Chalchuapa to consolidate the Central American union in the 19th century. Its current owner, doña Carolina de Perdomo, welcomes and guides visitors, offering fascinating explanations.
The farm is home to what is believed to be the country's tallest - 24 metres - and oldest pyramid. In 1954, the mound was explored by American archaeologist Boggs. Archaeological excavation work is currently being carried out by Japanese experts. A tour of the excavations is available. From the top of the pyramid, a beautiful view gives a real insight into the invasive nature.
The General Abraham Perdomo Herrera Museum displays ancestral artefacts showing how the Maya lived in the Chalchuapa region. Some of the pieces are 2,500 years old.
A walk through the coffee plantation reveals the entire production process, from the foot of the tree to the cup. A coffee tasting is offered at the end of the tour, and you can buy some to take home.
You can also visit the indigo workshop and dine on delicious traditional dishes.